Merrill's Books

February 2024 Spicy Romance Book Releases

As we step into the second month of 2024, the literary landscape is set to bloom with an array of captivating tales and thought-provoking narratives. This February, bibliophiles are in for a treat, with an eclectic mix of tropes and authors unleashing their latest spicy romance creations onto the bookshelves. From banter in enemies-to-lovers that will keep you on the edge of your seat to heartwarming tales of love and self-discovery, this month’s book releases promise to cater to every reader’s taste.

Join me on this literary journey as we explore the exciting lineup of spicy romance books that are destined to leave an indelible mark in your heart and on the literary scene in 2024.  

Let’s dive in…

reverse grumpy sunshine book released on February 3, 2024. The Reason I Married Him by Meghan Quinn book cover.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

In Meghan Quinn’s “The Reason I Married Him,” readers are whisked away to the charming small town of Almond Bay, where Aubree finds herself reluctantly agreeing to a marriage of convenience with Wyatt. The premise seems absurd at first—marrying someone for land and a cabin inheritance? But as Aubree and Wyatt navigate their fake relationship, sparks fly amidst the banter and bickering. Quinn masterfully weaves humor, heart, and steam into this enemies-to-lovers tale, making it impossible to put down. As Aubree and Wyatt’s connection deepens, readers are treated to a rollercoaster of emotions—from laughter to tears to swooning moments. With delightful character development and a supportive small-town backdrop, “The Reason I Married Him” is a feel-good romantic comedy that leaves readers rooting for love to prevail against all odds.

To see some of my other book reviews from Meghan Quinn check out my review of The Vancouver Agitators Series:

If you want more information, you can check out Meghan Quinn’s website for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

 The dynamic between the grumpy former footballer and his sunny ghostwriter captivates from the first page. The charm of this novel lies not just in its central romance but also in its contribution to the genre. It stands out among the February 2024 book releases. Stein’s narrative offers readers a refreshing departure from the typical love story formula. It delivers a romance that feels both groundbreaking and deeply human, showcasing the power of connection against all odds. This book promises to be a beacon for those craving a romance that both delights and surprises, making it a must-read this February.

If you want more information, you can check out Charlotte Stein’s Instagram for the newest updates and releases.

former footballer and curvy fmc get together in this grumpy sunshine matchup

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️/5

Monica Murphy’s “Lonely For You Only” intricately explores themes of celebrity romance, unexpected connections, and the transformative journey from staged relationships to authentic bonds. The story revolves around Scarlett Lancaster, a teenage heiress, and Tate Ramsey, a former pop sensation seeking a comeback. As Scarlett’s expectations clash with reality when Tate is hired instead of Harry Styles for her eighteenth birthday, the plot unfolds, introducing notions of redemption and second chances. The narrative takes a contemporary turn with a surprising kiss and its viral aftermath, shedding light on the impact of social media on personal and professional life. The decision to engage in a fake relationship for career advancement adds depth, guiding the characters through emotional exploration. As Scarlett and Tate navigate their evolving relationship, the story skillfully combines celebrity allure with genuine personal connections, offering a dynamic mix of humor, drama, and romance. Monica Murphy’s “Lonely For You Only” is poised to be an enjoyable and thought-provoking read for contemporary romance enthusiasts intrigued by the complexities of celebrity relationships and the blurred lines between reality and showbiz.

If you want more information, you can check out Monica Murphey’s website for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️/5

“Meant for Me” offers a compelling narrative steeped in emotional depth, standing out from typical romance novels on the shelf. The story follows characters navigating loss and love, finding solace in each other and emphasizing the transformative power of genuine companionship. This book brings a fresh yet familiar perspective to the romance genre, engaging readers from start to finish. In a literary landscape filled with passionate encounters, Meant for Me distinguishes itself not only through its stirring love story but also by highlighting the strength found in vulnerability. The book leaves a lasting impact, broadening the scope of what a romance novel can achieve and resonating with authenticity and depth, making it a standout release for 2024.

If you want more information, you can check out Tay Marley’s Instagram for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

I have been so excited for Fangirl Down to come out! The woman has made golf hot. This book weaves a captivating story of redemption and love in the face of adversity. The storyline delves into Wells Whitaker’s fall from grace. Once celebrated as a golf prodigy, he now battles with his own shattered confidence and a career at stake.

Josephine Doyle, the unwavering fangirl, introduces a glimmer of hope that Wells has long been looking for. Her belief in Wells never wavers, even when he’s ready to give up. She steps in as his caddy with a proposition that might just save them both. Their journey across the greens, fraught with challenges and moments of tenderness, showcases a romance blooming under the least likely circumstances.

This release marks a significant moment in the genre. Tessa Bailey, known for her ability to craft deeply emotional and satisfying stories, does not disappoint. Fan Girl Down pushes the boundaries of traditional romance novels. It offers readers not just a love story, but a journey of self-discovery and second chances. Fans eagerly await this addition, anticipating the unique blend of heartfelt emotion and gripping narrative that Bailey brings to the table.

If you want more information, you can check out Tessa Bailey’s website for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️/5

I have long awaited “The Catch” by Amy Lea, slated for release on February 13th, with high expectations. The novel unfolds in a coastal Canadian village, a setting that breathes life into the already vibrant narrative. It presents an unforgettable clash of worlds between a fashion influencer and a rugged fisherman.

Lea crafts characters with depth and relatability. Melanie Karlsen, with her city slicker finesse, and Evan Whaler, with his down-to-earth integrity, could not be more different. Yet, their forced proximity kindles a fire that neither can deny. This story does more than just entertain; it delves into themes of identity, family, and the pursuit of genuine connection.

For fans of romance, “The Catch” stands out as a beacon. It promises laughter, tears, and, most importantly, a heartwarming journey towards love. Readers will find themselves caught in the tides of Lea’s storytelling, eager to witness how Melanie and Evan navigate their unexpected romance. As the narrative unfolds, the anticipation builds, not just for the characters’ happily ever after, but for the impact this book is set to make on the romance genre.

If you want more information, you can check out Amy Lea‘s website for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️/5

Elle Kennedy surprises us again. She crafts a narrative where Abbey Bly steps into a world beyond her comfort zone. Abbey expects to find liberation in London, away from her overprotective father. Instead, she lands in a flat with boys; charming, off-limits boys. This twist sets the stage for a story rich in humor and unexpected romance. Abbey’s journey from a cautious girl to a bold woman enthralls us.

Abbey’s quest for freedom takes an ironic turn, challenging her at every step. She navigates the rules of her new home, facing the dilemma of forbidden attractions. Her heart gets pulled in different directions, stirring a whirlwind of emotions. The zest of exploring a foreign land is brilliantly mixed with the tang of evolving relationships.

Elle Kennedy’s loyal followers anticipate this release eagerly. Known for her engaging storytelling, Kennedy takes a leap with Girl Abroad. The novel stands out with its blend of adventure and romance. It deviates from her usual setting, offering readers a refreshing taste of life across the pond. Fans and new readers alike will find themselves drawn into Abbey’s world, rooting for her every step of the way.

If you want more information, you can check out Elle Kennedy’s website for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

I stumbled upon Can We Just Be Happy Now? by Tisa Matthews, marked for release on February 14th, and it promised a fresh breath in the romance aisle. The story places you right into the lives of childhood friends grappling with the complexities of evolving love. It reads like a journey we’ve all been a part of, or at least, longed to experience. The characters spring from the pages, their dilemmas, and joys echoing our own. They’re embroiled in a dance of setbacks and victories, making their story not just theirs but ours too.

The beauty of this narrative lies in its ability to weave a tapestry of emotions that feels achingly familiar. You find yourself rooting for love to conquer, despite the odds stacked against it. It’s a testament to Matthews’s adept storytelling that the book doesn’t just recount a love story; it invites us to reminisce, reflect, and even find solace. Its arrival in February adds a layer of allure, fitting perfectly with the season’s romantic fervor.

As someone who cherishes a good romance novel, I found this book a compelling addition to the 2024 roster of releases. Its charm not only lies in the twists and turns of its plot but in the profound relatability of its characters. Matthews skillfully captures the essence of young love, its trials, and triumphs, making Can We Just Be Happy Now? a resonant narrative for anyone who’s ever been in love.

If you want more information, you can check out Tisa Matthew’s Instagram for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️.5/5

I’ve heard nothing but great things about  “The Neighbor Wager” by Crystal Kaswell which will be released on February 20, 2024. Few spicy romance novels capture the essence of forbidden allure quite like this one. The tension between the characters crackles on the page, undeniable and electrifying. It’s a dance of proximity and distance, a tantalizing game of ‘what ifs’ and ‘if onlys’.

Crystal Kaswell crafts characters that leap off the page. You sense their desires, their internal struggles, the weight of the forbidden hanging over them. With each chapter, the emotional stakes climb higher. This isn’t just a book; it’s an experience, one that dares to explore the depths of human connection.

As a lover of romance, I seek out stories that move me. “The Neighbor Wager” did just that. It stands out in a sea of 2024 releases, enriching the genre with its unique spin on love against odds. Readers yearning for a narrative soaked in passion, complexity, and genuine human emotion will find it all here. Crystal Kaswell delivers a compelling read that pushes boundaries and tugs at the heartstrings, reminding us why we fell in love with romance novels in the first place.

If you want more information, you can check out Crystal Kaswell’s website for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️.5/5

Every chapter of Runaway Pride by Sylan Young unravelled a bit more of the electrifying chemistry between characters, against a backdrop of unexpected adventures. Their journey wasn’t just a path to finding love; it was a quest toward discovering their true selves.

Charlotte “Charlie” Ha’s leap of faith into a car, escaping her arranged marriage, served as the perfect opening scene. It set the stage for a tale brimming with freedom, choices, and the essence of self-discovery. Her impulsiveness brought her to Richard Min, a character who initially seemed like her antithesis. Their dynamic added depth to the storyline, weaving together moments of vulnerability with a slow-burning romance that felt both genuine and inevitable.

The setting, too, played its part to perfection. Every description of the places Charlie and Richard visit pulsed with life, creating a vivid canvas for their growing affection. It’s these details that elevate the book, turning it from merely another romance novel into a rich tapestry of encounters, emotions, and growth. Not only does Runaway Pride enrich the romance genre in 2024, but it also offers an invitation to readers. An invitation to dive into an enthralling narrative, where love is both the journey and the destination, painting every page with the promise of something more. As I turned the last page, I realized this was more than just a story about running away; it was a testament to running towards what truly matters in life.

If you want more information, you can check out Sylan Young’s Instagram for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️/5

“How To Fake It With a Fae” by Amy Boyles promises a captivating blend of magic and romance, delivering a unique journey filled with enchantment. Set against a backdrop rich in supernatural elements, the story intricately weaves together the complexities of the fae characters, portraying them as more than mythical beings with desires, fears, and the capacity for love. Boyles skillfully merges the fantastical with the emotional exploration of love, creating a narrative that feels both fated and hard-won. The protagonists face obstacles in a fantasy setting that test their feelings, making their journey to understanding and loving each other truly compelling. The book’s charm lies not only in its magical premise but also in its exploration of love under extraordinary circumstances, proving that love knows no bounds, even between different realms. “How To Fake It With a Fae” captures the imagination from the first page, offering a must-read for those who seek a romance that transcends the ordinary, combining the allure of a supernatural world with a universal quest for love.

If you want more information, you can check out Amy Boyles’ website for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️/5

“Mortgage of Convenience” by Dani McLean, scheduled for release on February 27, caught my attention amidst the highly anticipated February 2024 book launches. The novel promises a fresh take on the conventional love story, interweaving personal growth with an unconventional romance. The protagonists, Bee Montgomery and Sebastian Wolfe, enter into an arrangement where Sebastian, an ex-stripper with dreams of domesticity, seeks financial assistance for his dream home, while Bee, a ghostwriter comfortable in the shadows, aims to overcome stage fright. As their connection deepens, the novel explores more than financial assistance and confidence; it delves into the complexities of the human heart and the healing power of love. McLean’s storytelling, straightforward yet impactful, creates characters, Bee and Sebastian, whose vulnerabilities resonate, making them feel like friends rather than mere book characters. “Mortgage of Convenience” stands out in the romance genre for its heartfelt exploration of love and personal growth, a testament to McLean’s writing skill and her ability to craft characters that leave a lasting impact. The novel is a beacon of hope, reminding readers that stepping out of one’s comfort zone can lead to beautiful destinations.

If you want more information, you can check out Dani McLean’s website for the newest updates and releases.

Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️.5/5

“How To Fake It With a Fae” by Amy Boyles promises a captivating blend of magic and romance, delivering a unique journey filled with enchantment. Set against a backdrop rich in supernatural elements, the story intricately weaves together the complexities of the fae characters, portraying them as more than mythical beings with desires, fears, and the capacity for love. Boyles skillfully merges the fantastical with the emotional exploration of love, creating a narrative that feels both fated and hard-won. The protagonists face obstacles in a fantasy setting that test their feelings, making their journey to understanding and loving each other truly compelling. The book’s charm lies not only in its magical premise but also in its exploration of love under extraordinary circumstances, proving that love knows no bounds, even between different realms. “How To Fake It With a Fae” captures the imagination from the first page, offering a must-read for those who seek a romance that transcends the ordinary, combining the allure of a supernatural world with a universal quest for love.

If you want more information, you can check out Falon Ballard’s website for the newest updates and releases.